Does anyone have any links to technical papers, studies or reports that provide any science behind the claims that there are growing numbers of seals and sea lions and that there is a confirmed correlation between seal/sea lion numbers and a measurable impact on salmon returns that are not or cannot be associated with other environmental impacts.
The video mentions the need for studies to establish the seal population and status, therefore how has it been established that the salmon crisis is in any way linked to seal and sea lion numbers?
I am not saying there is or is not a correlation. The video is dramatic and if seal numbers have increased substantially the cause and effect would appear to be obvious. However, I would like to look at hard data rather than anecdotal assumptions and guesses, which may or may not be supported by hard evidence.
If there was clear evidence (or even reasonable evidence that suggests a likely correlation, i.e. based on a balance of probability, more than 50%), then I would fully support appropriate management.